Coach Allister Coetzee today confirmed that Gio Aplon (hamstring), Eben Etzebeth (shoulder), Jean De Villiers (wrist), Andries Bekker (back), have all recovered and will be available for selection against the Cheetahs next Saturday.

Schalk Burger, Duane Vermeulen and Nick Koster (all knee injuries) are expected to return only after the June break.

“We are in a good position at the moment, but it can all be quickly undone. The next 4 games are crucial to our campaign and our focus is fully on the Cheetahs next week.” said the coach. “We are really looking forward to playing in front of the Faithful again. Our time on tour was good, but there is really nothing like playing in front of our home fans. Newlands is a special place and the guys feed off that energy.”

The DHL Stormers have a bye this week and play the Cheetahs at DHL Newlands next Saturday 12 May at 1910.